If you don’t have a budget, you might consider buying a used truck. But before you do, you need to arm yourself with great knowledge and advice. Do not rush. You must first know your exact price range and do not deviate from your original plan.
Apart from that, you should also find out if the seller has maintenance records. Consider asking the salesperson if you can spend 45 to 60 minutes with the truck. During this time, thoroughly inspect the truck you want to buy.
Truck inspection checklist
First, you need to examine the truck only during the day. Remember that even when the place is well lit, flaws can still be hidden. Also, stay on level ground when checking fluids.
Second, check that the opening and the body panel gasket fit. Consider running your hand through the bottom area of the doors and check for rusted edges. From back to front, check the panels and the body. If they appear uneven, use a magnet when checking. If you notice any raised spots on the roof, it means there is rust underneath. And this will require a more extensive inspection of the area if you really want to buy such a vehicle.
Third, raise the hood. Consider removing the radiator cap and checking the coolant. Often times this will be greenish in color. When the color looks wrong, the motor can overheat. Today, there is already a cheap tester that you can invest in. Also check the air filter for excessive dirt. If there is a lot of oil or grease deposited on the engine, this indicates that it was not well cared for. If you are considering buying a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you should check the transmission dipstick. You should back off if the stick has a burning smell, as this means transmission problems.
Fourth, start the engine. Check for thumps or thumps as these sounds indicate a bad connecting rod bearing and crankshaft. Both can mean expensive repairs. Trucks should have a high idle setting. In case the idle doesn’t seem right, consider having a trusted mechanic check the engine. Also check all the switches and extras of the car like air and lights.
Fifth, drive the car, turn off the engine, cool it down for a moment, and start the engine once more. When the engine won’t start a second time, have a mechanic check it. It would be a good idea to take someone with you on a test drive because the additional rider may notice things like wind noise and rattle that the driver often cannot.